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If you're dealing with back pain that hasn’t improved with conservative treatments or injections, spine surgery may be the next step.
At Advanced Neurosurgery in Reno and Carson City, Nevada, our board-certified neurosurgeons specialize in outpatient spine surgery. Keep reading to learn all about what it is and how it works.
What is outpatient spine surgery?
Outpatient spine surgery allows you to undergo certain spinal procedures without an overnight hospital stay. Advances in surgical techniques, anesthesia, and pain management make it possible for many patients to return home just hours after their procedure.
Outpatient spine surgery involves minimally invasive techniques that feature small incisions, less damage to spinal tissues, and, in many cases, regional versus general anesthesia. With all those advantages, it probably won’t surprise you to learn outpatient spine surgery has grown increasingly common in recent years.
Outpatient spine surgery procedures
Common outpatient spine procedures include:
- Microdiscectomy for herniated discs
- Laminectomy to relieve spinal stenosis
- Spinal fusion for spinal instability (often with other procedures)
- Spinal fusion for scoliosis
- Kyphoplasty for vertebral compression fractures
- Artificial disc replacement
- Minimally invasive spinal decompression
- Debridement to treat spinal infections
These procedures and some others could be good candidates for outpatient surgery. Our experienced surgeons use the most advanced imaging technology, along with comprehensive physical exams and medical history reviews, to gain a full understanding of your condition before recommending treatment.
This approach helps us create personalized surgical plans prioritizing safety, effectiveness, and a faster recovery.
The benefits of outpatient spine surgery
Outpatient spine surgery offers some significant advantages for qualified candidates. These include:
Lower infection risk
Thanks to smaller incisions and advanced surgical techniques, outpatient spine surgery lowers the risk of surgical complications like infections.
Avoiding a hospital stay plays a big role, too. About 1 in 31 patients develop hospital-acquired infections, and each additional night in the hospital raises the risk further.
With outpatient spine surgery, you can skip the hospital and reduce your risk.
Faster recovery
Smaller incisions and less tissue damage mean faster healing. Many patients feel more comfortable and recover faster in a familiar environment.
Cost-effective
Avoiding a hospital stay can save money, making spine surgery more accessible and affordable, particularly if you’re paying large deductibles or out of pocket.
Is outpatient spine surgery right for you?
Not all spine surgeries are available as outpatient procedures. Factors such as the complexity of the procedure, your overall health, and the presence of other medical conditions (particularly chronic diseases) help our surgeons determine if you qualify.
Spine surgery in Reno and Carson City, Nevada
If you're considering spine surgery, book your appointment with Advanced Neurosurgery in Reno and Carson City, Nevada. Our renowned surgeons are ready to help you find a solution.